SUZA, APRM team up on self-assesment and governance research
ZANZIBAR: THE State University of Zanzibar (SUZA) has pledged to work closely with the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) to support national self-assessment on governance through the use of homegrown research expertise.
The partnership aims to ensure that research efforts align with national development priorities and contribute meaningfully to government planning.
Speaking after signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the university’s Tunguu main campus, SUZA Vice Chancellor Prof Mohammed Makame Haji said the institution would deploy its academic experts to carry out demand-driven research tailored to address societal needs and the labor market, with a focus on benefiting ordinary citizens.
He said that SUZA has a wealth of skilled professionals capable of conducting high-impact research that can support government policies, especially in line with Tanzania’s recently launched Vision 2050.
“None of the goals outlined in Vision 2050 can be achieved without effectively leveraging education and research. We must broaden our perspective to identify what is needed not only in Tanzania but across Africa to ensure our researchers and academics help address both current and future challenges,” he said.
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Prof Haji added that the university’s programs and research areas align closely with the priorities identified in Vision 2050, and SUZA’s contribution is essential to national progress both within and beyond Tanzania.
He also said that the collaboration with APRM will enable more targeted research in areas of high social and economic importance, directly benefiting both the government and citizens.
“This partnership strengthens our institutional capacity and helps us build the skills of the youth we educate,” he said.
He praised the leadership President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi for their efforts in driving national development, saying their progress inspires and empowers researchers to contribute meaningfully.
Head of Legal Services at SUZA, Dr Mtaibu Othman, said the partnership will lay a strong foundation for joint efforts in areas such as economic development, governance, and other government priorities.
Dr Othman added that the signing of the agreement also marks a historic milestone in institutionalising cooperation between the two bodies under clearly defined roles and responsibilities.
APRM Director in Tanzania, Mr Lamau Mpolo, underscored the importance of promoting good governance to support national development and praised SUZA’s role in preparing the country’s next generation of leaders.
He said that APRM, as a research-oriented institution, values its partnership with SUZA due to the university’s strong national reputation.
“Our collaboration ensures that research is evidence-based and conducted by knowledgeable experts. We are building a broad and strategic relationship, and we call on SUZA to continue supporting APRM whenever needed,” he said.
